EU261 is straightforward in principle: your flight was disrupted, you're owed money. But how much exactly? The answer depends on flight distance, delay length, and whether you were delayed or cancelled.
EU261 sets three fixed compensation amounts based on flight distance:
| Flight Distance | Delay Threshold | Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 km | 3+ hours | €250 |
| 1,500–3,500 km | 3+ hours | €400 |
| Over 3,500 km (EU to non-EU) | 3–4 hours | €300 |
| Over 3,500 km (EU to non-EU) | 4+ hours | €600 |
Compensation is not based on your ticket price. A €30 Ryanair ticket and a €500 Lufthansa business class ticket get the same compensation for the same disruption.
Let's make this concrete with real routes:
For long-haul flights over 3,500 km, there's a reduced rate:
This means a 3.5-hour delay on London → New York gets you €300, not €600.
For cancellations, the same compensation amounts apply — but with additional rights:
| Notice Period | Compensation |
|---|---|
| Less than 7 days | Full compensation (€250/€400/€600) |
| 7–14 days | Full compensation if alternative flight arrives 2+ hours late |
| More than 14 days | No compensation (refund only) |
Denied boarding always qualifies for full compensation — regardless of how early you were told. The amounts are the same as delay compensation.
Airlines sometimes try to reduce compensation:
Airlines may offer vouchers instead of cash. You have the right to insist on cash compensation. Vouchers are often worth less and expire.
Airlines cite weather, strikes, or air traffic control. Many of these claims are incorrect. Technical issues, staff shortages, and operational problems do not qualify as extraordinary circumstances.
Some airlines offer €100-200 hoping passengers won't push for the full amount. Don't accept less than you're entitled to.
These are two different things:
| Compensation | Refund | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Payment for inconvenience | Return of ticket cost |
| When | 3+ hour delay or cancellation | Cancellation or significant delay |
| Amount | €250–€600 | Full ticket price |
| Can you get both? | Yes — if cancelled | — |
Regardless of the cause, airlines must provide during delays:
This is separate from compensation — you're entitled to both.
ClaimPlane's compensation calculator does the math for you. Enter your flight details and we'll tell you exactly how much you're entitled to — in seconds.
👉 Check Your Flight — Free, no obligation, takes 2 minutes.
EU261 compensation is your right. Don't let airlines talk you out of it.